Food Guide - Must-Try Local Foods in Shimla and Rest of Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh not only boasts breathtaking landscapes but also a rich culinary heritage. The state's diverse topography and cultural influences have given rise to a unique array of flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

From aromatic spices to hearty mountain staples, here's a gastronomic journey through the must-try local foods in Shimla and other regions of Himachal Pradesh.

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Himachal Pradesh

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Shimla-Manali-Leh-Srinagar Circuit

This delightful culinary treat is crafted from wheat flour and accompanied by a flavorful mutton dish and assorted vegetables. Resembling litti or batti in appearance, the wheat flour undergoes a resting period of 4-5 hours before being cooked and subsequently steamed. This delectable offering can be savored in local eateries, allowing you to immerse yourself in its wholesome goodness.

Tudkiya Bhath

Tudkiya Bhath stands as a true delicacy hailing from Himachal Pradesh, offering a distinctive mountain-style pulao that is ideal for relishing on special occasions and festivals.

This delightful dish is a staple in many authentic restaurants throughout the region. Comprising a harmonious blend of rice, lentils, potatoes, yoghurt, onions, tomatoes, garlic, cinnamon, and cardamom, Tudkiya Bhath reaches its pinnacle of flavor when paired with mashed dal and a drizzle of lime juice.

Palda

Referred to as Pahari Aloo Palda, this dish features a luscious potato curry cooked in yogurt. The creamy gravy imparts a delightful blend of sweetness and subtle sourness. A staple in Himachali cuisine, Aloo Palda is frequently prepared with potatoes, and alternatively, it can be crafted using a medley of vegetables for a varied flavor profile.

Madra

Crafted from soaked chickpeas and an array of spices, including cloves, cinnamon, cardamoms, cumin, coriander powder, and turmeric, this traditional Himachali delicacy seamlessly blends taste and aroma. Originating from the Chamba district, it reaches its pinnacle of flavor when savored with both rice and warm chapatis.

Metthe chawal

This dessert boasts a flawless combination of sweetened rice, dried fruits, saffron, and raisins. Recognized as the quintessential sweet treat of Himachal Pradesh, it is meticulously crafted for festivals and noteworthy celebrations.

Bhey

This delightful dish is a ubiquitous find in every nook and corner of Himachal Pradesh. Crafted from sliced lotus stems, it undergoes cooking with ginger-garlic, onions, and gram flour, enhancing the overall flavor of the preparation.

Kullu trout fish

Considered among the healthiest offerings in Himachal Pradesh, Kullu Trout fish is a traditional dish characterized by marinated fish cooked with minimal raw spices to preserve its nutritional content. Ideally paired with boiled vegetables and steamed rice, this dish provides a wholesome and flavorsome dining experience.

Aktori

Crafted from a combination of buckwheat leaves and wheat flour, Aktori is essentially a pancake that pairs exceptionally well with pickles and spicy red chili chutney. Traditionally, this dish is prepared during festive occasions and special celebrations.

Khatte Chane

Khatte Chane stands out as a highly favored dish in Himachal Pradesh, forming an essential component of the traditional thali known as Dham. Crafted from black chickpeas, gram flour, spices, and jaggery, this traditional delicacy is alternatively known as "Channe ka Khatta" or simply "Khatta." Characterized by its sweet and sour profile, accentuated by the robust notes of mustard oil, it is typically enjoyed with rice in the Himachal region.

Chha Gosht

This exquisite delight caters to non-vegetarian enthusiasts, featuring marinated lamb cooked in a flavorful blend of gram flour and yogurt-based gravy. This authentic creation seamlessly blends Indian spices, including cardamom, red chili powder, coriander powder, bay leaf, asafoetida, and ginger-garlic paste, resulting in a perfect amalgamation of rich flavors.

Dhaam

At the heart of many festivals in Himachal Pradesh lies this traditional thali, serving as the essence of the celebration. Dhaam comprises an assortment of delicacies, coming together to create a lavish meal. Among the offerings are dishes such as dal, rajma, rice, curd, boor ki Kadi, and a touch of jaggery.

Exploring the culinary landscape of Himachal Pradesh is not just a journey for the taste buds; it's an immersion into the rich cultural tapestry of the region. From the festive Dham to the street-side delights like Babru, the local foods of Himachal Pradesh offer a diverse and flavorful experience.

So, if you find yourself in this mountainous haven, don't miss the opportunity to embark on a gastronomic adventure through the must-try local foods that define the heart and soul of this enchanting state.

For an authentic Pahadi thali meticulously crafted by seasoned chefs in Shimla, head to Himachali Rasoi and immerse your palate in the genuine essence of Himachali cuisine and its deep culinary roots. Situated in the heart of the Mall Road in Middle Bazaar, indulge in classic delicacies like Sidu, Chana Madra, Dham, and an assortment of thalis that showcase the rich tapestry of flavors this establishment has to offer.

Street Foods in Shimla and Where To Eat Them

Shimla not only captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes but also tantalizes their taste buds with a rich array of street foods. As you navigate the bustling streets of this charming hill station, a delightful culinary adventure awaits, showcasing the diverse flavors of Himachali cuisine. Discover these neighborhood gems that will undoubtedly leave you craving for another visit.

For a taste of the finest channa bhaturas in the city, head over to Sita Ram and Sons, a renowned eatery located in Shimla's Lakkar Bazaar. For a refreshing treat on warm days, the desserts and ice creams from Shimla's Embassy Ice Creams take the lead. Earning the admiration of the British Viceroys during the bygone era in Shimla, the tea stall, situated amid the dense forests of Chaura Maidan, is commonly referred to as Kewal ka Dhaba. Their specialty lies in their Butter Bun, served alongside a robust cup of Chai.

Situated just above The Ridge, Bhihari Lal Sharma Stall, in operation since 1948, holds the title of the oldest fruit chat vendor in Shimla.

Positioned at the start of the chat street at Takka Bench, just above the renowned Gandhi statue, this stall is a favorite stop for those ascending to Jakhoo Temple, where climbers consistently take a chat break. Rattan Ji Chanawala, the renowned chanawala in Shimla, famously featured in the movie "3 Idiots," can be found seated under the tree in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue. He offers tangy and chatpate chane that will undoubtedly make your taste buds dance with joy. At Tibetan Food Corner, they specialize in serving everyone's favorite - Momos. Whether steamed or fried, accompanied by red chilli chutney, pudina chutney, and mayo, this piping hot plate of momos offers a perfect escape from the chilly weather. However, the standout dish is the Kurkeys served with chili chutney, a unique delicacy not commonly found elsewhere.

Shimla's street foods are a vibrant reflection of the town's cultural diversity and culinary heritage. From traditional favorites like Sidu and Babru to the spicy delights of Tikki-Chole and the sweet endings with Ice cream, the street food of Shimla is an integral part of the town's charm.

So, the next time you find yourself in Shimla, be sure to embark on a culinary adventure through its lively streets and savor the flavors that make this hill station a gastronomic haven.